A waste company has been fined after one of its workers received severe burns to his upper body and face in October 2014.

A waste company has been fined after one of its workers received severe burns to his upper body and face in October 2014.

SUEZ Recycling and Recovery Tees Valley Ltd processes waste and burns it, turning it into energy. It operates in Stockton-on-Tees.

Following a blockage on one of its lines, the worker opened two hatches which take the burnt waste away. Using a metal pole to remove the blockage, the waste dropped into a pit filled with water. As a result, a plume of hot ash and water escaped and scalded the worker, causing severe burns to his upper body and face when he turned to escape.

A HSE investigation found that the company failed to adequately consider the risks during the particular task. The system of work was found to be insufficient and it was found that there were inappropriate systems of management and supervision.

The company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, was fined £220,000 and ordered to pay costs of £12,695.65.